Programmable device packaging method and system
US6089000A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 5, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jul 18, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 5, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65B19/34
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A packaging method and apparatus for packing items in selectively variable numerical quantities includes a track assembly adapted to support a plurality of strip items in parallel array. In a first section of the track assembly, a lateral slot receives consecutive batches of strips in parallel array. A plurality of pusher elements extend through a track slot, pushing the strips to impinge on each other in edge-adjacent fashion, and to translate distally from the first stage. A second stage of the track assembly includes a sufficient length of the track to accumulate a large number of strips. At the distal end of the track, a strip collection cylinder receives the strips. One end of the cylinder is configured to receive the open end of a bottle package, and the other receives a plunger to push the accumulated strips from to the bottle. A pusher element mechanism is programmable to extend into the track slot at any selected distance from the collection cylinder, and to push into the collection cylinder all the strips between that point and the cylinder. Given the uniform size of the strips and their edge-adjacent impingement, the pusher element easily may be directed to select any nu…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.